When winter hits Cumberland County, freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Frozen pipes are not just an inconvenience—they can cause significant damage and costly repairs. This guide offers practical tips to keep your pipes safe this winter.
Insulating Pipes Exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages are most vulnerable to freezing. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to provide extra protection against cold temperatures.
Sealing Cracks and GapsCracks near windows, doors, and walls allow cold air to enter and freeze nearby pipes. Caulk and weatherstrip these openings to safeguard your plumbing.
Keeping Water FlowingRunning water is less likely to freeze. During extremely cold weather, let your faucets drip slightly to keep water moving through your pipes.
Opening Cabinet DoorsAllow warm air to reach pipes under sinks by keeping cabinet doors open, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Maintaining a Consistent TemperatureAvoid drastic temperature drops in your home by keeping your thermostat set at the same level day and night. If traveling, do not lower it below 55°F.
Disconnecting Outdoor HosesTrapped water in hoses and outdoor faucets can freeze and expand, leading to pipe damage. Disconnect and store hoses, and cover outdoor faucets for added protection.
Knowing Your Main Water Shut-Off ValveIn case of a burst pipe, turning off the main water supply quickly can minimize water damage. Ensure you know where the valve is located and how to use it.
Benefits of Frozen Pipe Prevention
Avoid Costly Repairs Taking preventative steps saves you from expensive pipe repairs and water damage restoration.
Peace of Mind Knowing your home is protected against freezing temperatures allows you to enjoy winter without worry.
Emergency Tip: Thawing Frozen Pipes Safely If you suspect a pipe is frozen, turn off the water supply and use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels to gently thaw it. Never use an open flame or torch to thaw pipes as it poses a fire hazard.
Trust the Experts at Crossville Heating and Cooling Protecting your home from frozen pipes is easier with professional help. At Crossville Heating and Cooling, we offer expert plumbing services to keep your home safe and functional during winter. As the fastest in town guaranteed, we’re here to assist with all your plumbing needs.
Preventing frozen pipes is essential to avoid costly repairs and keep your home running smoothly all winter. Follow these tips to safeguard your plumbing, and don’t hesitate to call Crossville Heating and Cooling for expert assistance. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs.
A plumbing inspection checks a home's plumbing system. This includes pipes inside and outside, like hose bibs, sinks, and toilets. It's a detailed check that goes beyond a simple home inspection.
Plumbing emergencies include water leaks, burst or damaged pipes, and sagging or discolored ceilings. They also cover low water pressure, overflowing toilets, and clogged drains. Other issues are water heater failure, gas leaks, and sewage backups.
These problems can cause a lot of water damage, health risks, and safety issues. They need quick action by a professional plumber.
You'll often find the main water shutoff valve in the basement, crawlspace, or near the water heater. It might also be on an exterior wall or in the yard.
Getting a plumbing inspection helps spot problems early. It shows the plumbing's condition to potential buyers. And it stops small issues from becoming big, costly ones.
It's important to fix plumbing problems fast to prevent water damage and mold growth. These issues can harm your home's structure and your family's health. Waiting can lead to expensive repairs later.
There are two main types: gate valves and ball valves. Ball valves are better because they're reliable and easy to use.
There are two main types of plumbing inspections. A visual inspection looks for leaks or problems with water and sewer fittings. A camera inspection uses high-resolution cameras to see inside pipes and the sewer line.
Look out for wet spots on floors or walls, discoloration, and sounds of running water. These signs mean you might have a serious water leak. Ignoring it can cause more damage, mold, and structural problems.
To shut off the valve, turn the handle or lever clockwise until it stops. For gate valves, turn the circular handle clockwise. For ball valves, turn the lever 90 degrees to the water line.
A plumbing inspection checks sinks, toilets, and pipes. It looks at outdoor faucets and the water heater too. Sometimes, it includes a camera inspection of the sewer line.
A burst pipe can spill hundreds of gallons of water quickly, damaging walls, floors, and furniture. It's often caused by freezing, corrosion, or high pressure. You need a professional plumber right away.
If it's stuck, use channel lock pliers to gently tighten the packing nut. If leaking, tighten the bleeder valve with your fingers or pliers. If it still leaks, you might need a new valve from a professional plumber.
A plumbing inspection usually costs about $200. Visual inspections are cheaper, but camera inspections can be up to $500. You might also need to pay for repairs if problems are found.
Sagging or discolored ceilings suggest a hidden water leak. This can lead to structural damage and mold growth. These signs mean water has been leaking behind walls or ceilings for a while.
Turn it off in a plumbing emergency, like a burst pipe or leaking appliance, to stop water flow and prevent damage. Also, turn it off before leaving for a long time to avoid leaks or flooding.
Experts suggest getting a plumbing inspection every two years. If your home is over 40 years old, consider an annual check to keep the plumbing in good shape.
Low water pressure is a problem if it affects many faucets or fixtures. It can be caused by a failing pressure regulator, clogged pipes, or municipal water issues. This needs quick action.
If you can't find the valve or it's stuck, call a professional plumber. They can find the valve, even if it's hidden, and replace a faulty one.
There's no special prep needed, but knowing about any issues like slow drains or leaks is helpful. Tell the inspector about these problems before the inspection.
Try using a plunger or turning off the water supply to the toilet. But if it keeps overflowing, call an emergency plumber. They can fix it before more damage happens.
Keep it working well by checking and maintaining it regularly. Turn the valve on and off to ensure it moves easily. Watch for leaks or corrosion and fix them quickly to prevent damage.
Regular inspections catch small problems early, avoiding big, costly repairs. They prevent water damage and ensure your plumbing works well. They can also make your home more appealing to buyers.
A broken water heater is an emergency if it has gas leaks or could cause water damage. Signs include no hot water, strange noises, or leaks. Call a plumber if you notice these.
